REHAU Sturgis is constantly reinventing itself. How have you experienced this in your professional career?

Kim: With all the ups and downs that come with a long professional life, I appreciate the family atmosphere and the values the company stands for. Despite all the changes, we always had the feeling of being part of something bigger. Even in situations that we had to experience as painful cuts, such as in 2004/2005, for example.

Mark: At that time, our entire production was relocated to Canada for reasons beyond our control. As a result, almost 70 jobs were lost. When I started in 1989, Sturgis was the successful edgeband and tube plant. We had big growth plans and had already doubled in size by 1995. The transformation to a warehousing and distribution center with significantly fewer staff was therefore not easy. But Sturgis is a survivor.

The location still plays a significant role for Furniture Solutions in North America ...

Mark: Absolutely. And we're growing. Today, there is an 80,000-square-foot furniture manufacturing facility next to the distribution center. Here, we manufacture custom cabinet doors and panels that can be customized to within a fraction of an inch in a wide selection of modern finishes. Plans call for the installation of a laminating line in 2023.

What makes teamwork at Sturgis stand out?

Kim: I am currently on the inside sales and customer service team. Prior to that, I worked on a variety of teams, from administration to purchasing, accounts payable, shipping, warehouse, etc. As a result, I have enjoyed the privilege of working with wonderful colleagues over the years. My current team consists of four people who have about 130 years of combined experience at Rehau. Where else can you find that?

Mark: Working with the team in Sturgis is special to me in every way. I am still close friends with some of my colleagues today, even though there were career breaks. When I was able to come back to Sturgis from Leesburg to help set up the new furniture parts production, it was a very good feeling. By the way, our first new employee for production was also a former colleague. It was great that we were able to bring him back on board.

To what extent is the changeability of the Sturgis site also a sign of courage?

Mark: I think all employees who have walked the journey with us over the years know, every company has its ups and downs. As a team, we have shown the courage to believe in our company as well as ourselves on multiple occasions.

Kim: Over the years, I never felt like I had to face any of the challenges alone, professionally or personally. My core team, my management team, and even the highest levels of the organization were always available. Some of my best lessons in life - courageous or not - have been learned from my colleagues and managers.